Wanted: Coralline Algae

[Whoyah]

So I recently realized that one of the things that my tank is missing, is very nice, heavy coralline algae coverage. I realized this when I was over at a local reefer's house this weekend and saw his dark purple rock compared to my white/tan rock. I have coralline algae in my tank but not like that.

My coralline algae grows well in the shady spots but it seem bleach out in direct light. I only get the pinkish white stuff in direct light. Several places that have high flow and low light (overflow drain, sump surfaces) have a nice cover. I know that intense light will kill coralline algae but I have a hard time believing my power compacts are really pumping out that much light compared to MH bulbs. My calcium is around 390-400. Could this be part of my problem? Any ideas?

[Reptoreef]

A stable alk/ca is pretty crucial... BTW, there are diff types of coralline, some are fond of high lighting. I'm sure, with time, you'll see more growth as long as you're able to keep a stable ca/alk, though(ca high 300-mid 400/alk 9-11 DKH). Have you tested your mag, as well(1300-1350)?

[Grandmaster_Toad]

I agree wih repto, coraline algae is a HUGE calcium lover. If there isnt enough calcium it simply wont grow.
GT

[Whoyah]

Have you tested your mag, as well(1300-1350)?

No but I was considering getting a Mag test kit. On another thread, I believe "water chemistry", it was mentioned that IO, which I use, does not provide good mag levels. Could this part of the problem?

[Reptoreef]

Definitely... IO only offers a mag of around 1100. IMO, slowly change your salt to Oceanic or Red Sea(my faves) or get that kit, test and add suppliments as neccessary.

[Whoyah]

Since I have new bucket of IO, I will probably go with the test and add method. I told I would use Kent Tech M. Any opinions on the stuff?

[davejnz]

I just started using it,kinda expensive if your gonna be using it to correct a 200-300 ppm deficiency,a cheaper fix would be to supplement epsom salts and just use the Tech M to maintain those levels.

[davejnz]

BTW,I've always had great coralline growth with just dripping kalk 24/7.I just recently started adding Mag so i really cant report on its effectiveness yet

[BUGZME]

repto: you don't use io salt? could you explain why you use another brand-- please

[Reptoreef]

The Red Sea Salt is aka "dirty salt" due to a more natural unpurified mix helping to keep those natural levels of NSW. Oceanic seems to have been able to achieve those levels I desire while still appearing "cleaner".